Classification of Forklift Trucks
For little under a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even now, this particular kind of machine is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the globe.
The first forklifts were made as a result of manpower shortages which were caused by WWI. Businesses like for instance Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling equipment which used powered lift tractors inside their plants. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved during the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with WWII. The forklift played an important role during this time in the handling of supplies for various armies throughout the world. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced which proved the need for the forklift in the material handling industry.
When WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, forklifts which use batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized kinds of forklifts introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular type was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Nowadays, the forklift can be powered by various fuel options like diesel, electrical battery, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, liquid propane gas or LPG. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This kind uses 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less compared to those types of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.